Artist Statement: At the Sirkeci Railway Station in Istanbul, Turkey, we watched the Sufi mystics perform their spinning dance. While whirling, each dervish has arms open with his right arm directed to the sky, ready to receive God's beneficence and his left hand turned toward the earth. This practice, originating in the 12th century, is said to connect the dervish and those who watch with God's spiritual gift of love.

Materials & Techniques: Dyes painted by hand on silk broadcloth; ink coloring with InkTense pencils; hand-dyed pearl cotton and six-stranded floss for embroidery; Hand appliquéd, hand embroidered and hand quilted. Back and batting 100% cotton.

Dimensions: 72"W x 63"H